Commission approves EMS and 9‑1‑1 transfers; officials warn of aging backup batteries and funding shortfalls

Commissioners on July 14 approved EMS transfers intended to move funds from full‑time paramedic lines into part‑time EMT lines to reduce overtime costs and better use part‑time staff. Scott County EMS (represented in the meeting as "Nick") explained the department has been using part‑time staff more heavily and requested several line transfers; motions to approve those transfers were made and passed.

Separately, the EMA/9‑1‑1 representative described a proposal to subscribe to a 9‑1‑1 simulator and training system (quoted at roughly $5,000 per year depending on contract length) and asked that any contract be reviewed by the county attorney before signature. The representative said the vendor offers a clause that would allow the county to exit the contract if future appropriations are not made.

Commissioners and EMA leadership also discussed an emergency equipment failure: one of the main battery backups at the 9‑1‑1 center had stopped charging. The EMA representative said many centers use the same back‑up units and that replacements are aging. The chair noted an estimated replacement cost of about $15,000, and commissioners said they would consider the immediate need alongside longer‑term funding shortfalls for the 9‑1‑1 center.

The commission accepted a Duke Energy Foundation grant appropriation of $4,601.60 for equipment and approved a $5,000 annual contract funding line (subject to attorney review) for the training/quality‑assurance simulator if the county proceeds.

Commissioners asked staff to pursue city and regional cooperation on long‑term 9‑1‑1 funding and to monitor the EMA/9‑1‑1 budget closely during upcoming budget discussions.